17-10-2023 (MANILA) In a significant move to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in its exclusive economic zone, the Philippines has entered into an agreement with Canada to leverage Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection System (DVD). This arrangement, signed on the sidelines of the 6th Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation in Ottawa, Canada on October 12, also seeks to enhance maritime domain awareness, a matter of urgency given the ongoing challenges Filipinos face in the West Philippine Sea, particularly concerning China’s activities.
The official agreement was signed by Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita Austria and Canadian Assistant Deputy Minister Adam Burns of the Programs Sector within the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO).
The Dark Vessel Detection System (DVD) is a specialized program designed to counteract the tactics employed by certain vessels that deliberately deactivate their Automatic Identification System (AIS) to conceal illicit activities. It utilizes a multi-sensor approach, drawing data from both commercial and government-owned satellite assets to provide near-real-time satellite imagery. Additionally, the system incorporates historical vessel information, environmental data, and advanced analytics to support and facilitate analysis.
The responsibility for managing this system will be shared between the Philippine National Coast Watch Center (NCWC) and Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO).
The need for enhanced capabilities in the West Philippine Sea has gained prominence following recent incidents involving China’s provocative actions in the area. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has emphasized the importance of the Philippine Navy remaining resolute in protecting the nation’s interests and its citizens.
AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar highlighted that China’s actions not only harm its international image but also underscore its disregard for international laws and conventions, as well as the well-being of others. Despite dangerous maneuvers by the Chinese targeting the BRP Benguet during a rotation and resupply mission on October 13 near Pag-asa Island, the mission was successfully completed. The AFP stressed that the professionalism and navigational skills of its personnel are critical in preventing accidents.
In a meeting with AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., British Ambassador Laure Beaufils commended the Philippines for its strong stance in addressing security challenges in the West Philippine Sea amid China’s dangerous and coercive actions. Both parties agreed to enhance their partnership, particularly in the context of common defense and diplomatic positions, expressing solidarity in addressing the situation in the West Philippine Sea.
